McLendon's Syndrome

This is the first of two brilliantly funny science fiction adventures set in a universe where incompetence has been elevated to an art form. Ken MacKay is an ensign on a decrepit space freighter called the Rustam's Slipper. She's shorthanded, so the skipper takes on a new crewmember called Caterina Lindquist Caterina is beautiful and smart, but suffers from a rare disease now classified as "McLendon's Syndrome" - the symptoms of which include very pale alabaster coloured skin, inability to tolerate direct sunlight, etc - yes, most of the disadvantages associated in medieval times with vampires. And some of the advantages as well. Then a series of highly suspiscious events start occurring, including murder. Some crew members are convinced that Caterina must be behind them - but Ken is not so sure. If you enjoyed Keith Laumer's "Reteif" comedy science fiction stories you will love "McLendon's Syndrome" and the sequel, "The VMR Theory."

This book is hilarious! The first person account leaves you feeling very much in the shoes of our hero (Ken McKay), who is a sane person stuck in a universe going crazy around him. A farce similar to Asprin's work (Phule's Company, M.Y.T.H. Inc.), this book and its sequel (The VMR Theory) are superior to Asprin's excellent work. If you've read any of Frezza's A Small Colonial War / Fire in a Faraway Place / Cain's Land series, don't judge by these. That series was a very serious dark-toned tragedy. McLendon's Sydrome is the exact opposite, pure comedy with a cynical tone.

I thought I knew what I was getting into when I got this book. I can usually guess plot lines, but not here! Excellent writing with satirical wit.